Bottle Notes, Zinfandel

2015 A. Rafanelli Zinfandel – Bottle Notes

Alberto Rafanelli, an Italian immigrant, first founded A. Rafanelli Winery in the early 1900’s. It wasn’t until the early 70’s that Alberto’s son, Americo, came out with the present day label and started selling the wine commercially. David and Patty Rafanelli now run the winery and a 4th generation Rafanelli, their daughter Shelly, is the winemaker. The winery is perhaps best known for their Zinfandel but also produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with all the fruit sourced from their vineyard in Dry Creek Valley.

Crimson in color. 14.8% ABV. Awesome nose of black fruits, plums, licorice and pepper. Medium to full bodied with mouth watering acidity. Bursting with dark fruits. Exceptional balance. Black cherry, blackberry liqueur, earth and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. About as good as Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel gets. Best over the next 2-3 years.

My rating: 93 points.

I’ve previously posted on Rafanelli in What’s Your Price for Zin?

Rafanelli recently entered the digital age and you can now sign up for the mailing list on their website! The tasting room is open by appointment and is always worth a visit to try the new releases. The 2019 Zinfandel was just released and should be available if you contact the winery.

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